UV Flatbed Printing vs. DTF Printing with Sublimation Ink

There are a lot of options in the world of printing, especially when it comes to printing bright and bold colours on a variety of surfaces. Though there are many options, two technologies stand out as being something special – UV flatbed printing and direct-to-film (DTF) printing with sublimation ink. There are key differences between the two, and understanding what sets them apart is key if you want to choose the right option for your business.

The Ins and Outs of a UV Flatbed Printer

A UV flatbed printer is a printer that can transform almost any flat surface into a canvas, enabling you to market and advertise in whatever way works for you. With a UV flatbed printer, you can print directly onto an extensive range of materials, from wood and metal, to glass and acrylic. This makes it ideal for signage, phone cases, awards and more.

UV flatbed printers use UV inks, which cure instantly under ultraviolet light, creating prints that are resistant to fading, scratching and moisture. This makes it the perfect option for demanding environments and outdoor use, as the elements aren’t going to impact its visual appeal. You can print them, place them and leave them, knowing they’re going to look their best for a long time. A UV flatbed printer is capable of printing an impressive amount of detail and vibrant colours, which isn’t possible with a lot of standard printers.

The Appeal of DTF Printing with Sublimation Ink

DTF print, when paired with sublimation ink, is a newer technology but it’s no less impressive.

Unlike UV flatbed printing, DTF print excels at printing on fabrics. The sublimation ink process dyes the fabric fibres itself, which creates vibrant and wash-resistant designs on various items of clothing. DTF allows for printing on pre-treated films, which can then be applied to a broader range of surfaces, including curved ones. This opens up new possibilities for customisation. Regardless of your requirements, no matter how unique, DTF printing can be tailored to you.

One of the biggest selling points of choosing DTF print is that it boasts faster turnaround times compared to traditional clothing printing methods. This makes it ideal for on demand customisation and small production runs. If you suddenly need printing done, you can relax, knowing that DTF print is extremely quick. Plus, as it can handle small production runs, it’s a good choice for one-of-a-kind projects.

Which is Right for You?

When it comes to using a UV flatbed printer with UV inks, or DTF print with sublimation inks, the right method for you will depend on your printing requirements. If you are printing directly onto a wide variety of rigid materials with exceptional durability, a UV flatbed printer is the clear option. If your project involves fabric customisation and requires wash resistant results, DTF printing with sublimation ink is likely to be the better choice. The two printing technologies are not interchangeable, but they are equally impressive.